Symptoms

Stings or bites can cause severe reactions. It is rare but can be deadly. The reaction called anaphylaxis can cause:

Skin rash, hives, itching, swelling in areas away from the sting site

Swelling of lips, tongue, face, throat, and eyelids

Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing

Lightheadedness, fainting

Insects that live in the house can cause problems in the respiratory system. In this case, symptoms may include:

Runny nose

Sneezing

Coughing

Wheezing

Difficulty breathing

Shortness of breath

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may suspect an allergy on how your body reacted to bite or sting. A doctor that specializes in allergies can help.

Tests for an allergy may include:

Skin prick test—tiny amounts of allergen are placed on your skin. The doctor will watch the area for a reaction. The test will be done under medical care. They can give fast treatment if there is a severe reaction.

Blood test—to look for signs your body has responded to an allergen.

Treatment

Some reactions cause trouble breathing. If this is the case, call for emergency medical services right away.

General treatment may include:

Epinephrine—medicine for severe reactions. It is injected after a sting when someone has severe allergies. Often called epi-pen.

Bronchodilators—inhaled medicine that can help to treat asthma. Can reduce wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Allergy shots may help to decrease or stop an allergic reaction. It is done over a series of shots. Each shot has a very tiny amount of insect venom. It allows your body to get use to the venom. May be used for severe allergies to honeybees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, or fire ants.

If you have had severe reactions:

Carry self-injectable epinephrine and possibly an antihistamine for severe reactions.

Possibly carry an antihistamine (talk to your doctor)

Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. These will inform others of your allergy.

Prevention

There are not steps to keep you from developing allergies. However, you may be able to prevent flare ups. To help reduce risk of insect bite or sting:

Try to avoid places where stinging insects are common.

Be careful when doing yard or garden work. Beware when hiking in the forest.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.